Kitchener Executive Consultants (KEC) has been creating and nurturing partnerships with clients and candidates since 1976. Through our proven track record of success we've honed a clearly defined and thorough recruitment process creating an environment of trust on both sides of the hiring equation. Our extensive network of offices throughout Canada, the United States and overseas enables us to leverage resources and assist our clients and candidates with their executive search needs on a global basis. We are committed to providing a confidential and targeted recruitment experience that reflects the magnitude and importance of each hiring decision. Our ultimate goal is to enhance the success of both our client companies and candidates.

Cambridge Freightlines Ltd. was purchased while I was officially employed though another of our divisions. I collaborated with multiple incumbent supervisors to manage the HR elements of all divisions throughout the acquisition. In order to satisfy the changing business needs, direction, and culture, I authored new policies and procedures. The administrative staff (including payroll and accounts) were placed under my direction. Somewhere along the way, I decided it would be a good idea to become the resident Microsoft Excel guru. The safety and compliance duties also fell under my scope. I initiated company-wide AODA compliance, maintained WHMIS information, and standardized processes for the health and safety committee.I re-designed the full cycle recruiting pipeline: need analysis, job design, marketing, sourcing, screening, hiring, orientation and training. I also advised the management team regarding obligations for full cycle out-placement: employee evaluation, discipline, termination, layoff, liaising with payroll, benefit cancellation, property and information security, reference and exit interviews.In a few cases, I coordinated return-to-work plans for personal and workplace injuries. This involved facilitating modified work arrangements and other graduated rehabilitation programs with the WSIB and private consultants.

In this position I directed all aspects of the recruitment and selection pipeline; placing permanent, temporary, and contract candidates for multiple clients.I had the opportunity to revise all internal policies and procedures based on industry-recognized best practices. Day-to-day operational management included new hire orientation, safety and regulatory compliance, drug pool administration, scheduling of assignments, and exit assistance of up to 40 temporary and contract employees with a payroll in excess of $1 million. While in this role, I oversaw the 2014 acquisition of Cambridge Freightlines Ltd. by our ownership group. I researched and drafted original documentation; created targets and plans for all staffing, safety, and compliance needs for that business and began acting in an HR capacity for both companies.

As an entrepreneur, I did just about every task that a business needs to function. Sales? Check. Finance? Check. Manage day-to-day business processes, policy, planning, training and development, quality assurance, and improve the overall customer experience? Check all of the boxes.Until we got to the point where we could operate on reputation, word of mouth and repeat business alone, I was tasked with working the floor at trade shows and carrying out the web-based, audio-visual media and traditional print marketing campaigns. I learned how to make "viral" marketing work because it was critical to staying competitive.